On arrival in Belize before heading out to Glover's Reef, we have an opportunity to experience the diversity of the tropical savannah. Working with guides from the Tropical Education Center we have a rare chance to view the nocturnal wildlife of Belize. Then in the jungle, we float down the "River of Caves" which flows underground through a massive cave system

Venture inland for a cave hike and float through lush rainforest on inner tubes. Stay overnight at the Tropical Education Centre. Our classic Glover’s Reef and River of Caves trip allows you to explore and stay on Glover’s Atoll, a protected marine park and designated world heritage site thirty-six miles off shore of mainland Belize. Spend five and a half days in one of the richest marine environments in the Caribbean Sea. You will have an opportunity to paddle, snorkel, kayak sail, fish, and SUP as you explore the turquoise lagoons and thriving coral reefs. Stay at our Southwater Caye Basecamp which provides comfortable, safari style tent cabanas and delectable cuisine of fresh seafood, tropical fruit and local favorites. Enjoy a flexible daily schedule on the reef, with activity choices geared to all interests and abilities.

Glovers Reef & River of Caves
(2016) -
ZZ-BESK07

Rates include:

All meals (fully catered) while you are at our
Southwest Caye base-camp. Selection of chilled wines and rum are served with dinner, or as cocktails on some evenings. Professional guide and sports instruction services. All accommodations including 2 nights forest cabanas, 5 nights base camp and 1 night hotel. Marine Park fees of $25US, cave entrance fees. Financial Support for Conservation
and Education programs in Belize. Charter flight from Dangriga to Belize City.

Rates do not include:

Transfer back to Belize International Airport, Alcoholic Beverages & Soft Drinks (except afternoon/evening cocktail at Glovers). Gratuities. Snorkeling or Dive Gear & Scuba Diving. Extra costs due to late Arrivals and other circumstances beyond our control

Itinerary for
Glovers Reef & River of Caves

Day 1: Arrive at the Belize International Airport, where you will be met by an Island Expeditions' representative and transferred to the Tropical Education Center. The Tropical Education Center is adjacent to the Belize Zoo, and is an ideal starting point for the adventure that awaits you. You will be able to explore the surrounding savannah forest through their network of interpretive trails and wildlife viewing platforms. They also offer a terrific Interpretive Center which details the diverse ecology of Belize. After checking into your forest cabana you can enjoy a Belizean dinner and have a chance to meet your fellow travelers. Later that evening, you can join an optional, specially arranged nocturnal tour of the Belize Zoo. This tour is a great introduction to the fauna of Belize, such as jaguars, ocelots, tapirs and other species native to Belize and is offered on a donation basis. ‘Day 0’ is the day to meet your fellow travelers and acclimatize to your new tropical environment. Transfers from the airport, lodging and dinner are included. Accommodations: Forest cabanas
Meals: Dinner included

Day 2: Enjoy a tour of the River of Caves area of Belize, exploring the fascinating Darknight cave system. Walk on a trail through lush rainforest to the cave’s entrance, then hike underground through limestone caves rich with amazing crystallized flow stone, stalactite and stalagmite formations. Our guides are sure to point out ancient relics, clay whistles, Maya pots and other fossilized items along the way. To end the adventure, you’ll jump into inner tubes and float downstream, in and out of the cave system ending at your starting point. You will enjoy a Belizean lunch before returning to the Tropical Education Center mid-afternoon. That evening you can enjoy a bird walk along the beautiful Caribbean Pine Savannah Interpretive Trail.Accommodations: Forest cabanas
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Day 3 to 7: You’ll depart early in the morning and drive the scenic Hummingbird Highway through the Rainforest to the coastal town of Dangriga. Here you board a charter boat to our remote Basecamp on Southwest Caye. Southwest Caye is located in the Glover’s Reef Marine Reserve. Upon arrival, you’ll receive an introduction to your new environment before settling into your ocean view tent cabana. Our guides will then conduct professional instruction to teach you the fundamentals of sea kayaking, snorkeling, and tropical water safety. After training, enjoy a paddle to a nearby patch reef and start exploring some of the 700 snorkel sites Glover’s Reef Atoll has to offer. Glover’s Reef is one of the most spectacular marine environments in Belize and offers the best kayaking, snorkeling, and diving in the Caribbean. Due to its isolation from the mainland, the waters are exceptionally clear with a rich reef ecosystem. Our itinerary is flexible in order to accommodate individual and group preferences. Activities include paddling, snorkeling the inner and outer walls of the reef, SUP and learning to sail a kayak. In the mornings and evenings, we host informative sessions on a range of topics. This allows our guides to share their vast knowledge of Belize, its unique marine environments, and the local culture with you. Guests who prefer a more leisurely pace can always take time to kick back in a hammock and relax with a good book!Accommodations: "Basecamping", sleeping in tent-walled cabanas. These spacious safari-style tents have ample headroom to walk around and are on raised wooden floors with double or single beds, with all bed linen provided.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner included

Day 8: Many guests choose to wake up early on this final morning and enjoy a coffee on the dock for the last time. Watch the sunrise over the atoll before enjoying a hearty breakfast. Your boat charter usually departs around midmorning to take you back to the mainland, arriving at approximately noon. Your trip finishes in the Garifuna town of Dangriga, and our helpful staff will assist you with connecting to the next leg of your journey.Meals: Breakfast and packed lunch included

Travel note: For travelers who will be leaving Belize on Day 8, international connections out of the country require a departure after 3:00pm. To connect with Sunday afternoon departures from Belize a short domestic flight is required. This flight is from Dangriga to the Belize International Airport - please contact our office for assistance. For guests who would like to spend an extra night in Belize we offer a Flight & Hotel Package (optional "Day 9")--please ask for current rates.
Please note all itineraries are subject to change depending on weather or safety considerations. Flexibility as our guest and as an international traveler is the key to an awesome experience.

Other Info

Meeting:

Belize City

Airport:

Belize City

Transfer:

Belize City
Pick is arranged from the Belize International airport on Day 1.
The last night is at a hotel in Belize City. Services end here the next morning.

Level:

Easy to Moderate

Participants:

Min
6
participants

Max
22
participants

Quality leadership is an integral part of any great trip and is what helps to distinguish Hidden Trails' partner, Island Expeditions, trips from the rest. Our leaders, far and away the most experienced in Belize, are consummate professionals taking great pride and personal pleasure in sharing and creating memorable travel experiences for you. With backgrounds as biologists and teachers, photographers, fishermen and explorers, they provide invaluable insights into the areas and cultures we travel. All wilderness trips are led by the most experience leaders in the business. This ensures that you are venturing into the wilds of Belize with Belizean guides, who have a wealth of experience and skills relating to the environments, languages and customs of their native land, along with North American leaders who accompany the group, and are trained to North American standards in Wilderness First Aid, Swiftwater Rescue and Kayaking Instruction. Perhaps most important, IEC guides' consideration for your safety, and their enthusiasm, good nature and dedication help to set the tone for each trip... where learning and exceptional adventures go hand in hand.

SEA KAYAKING IN THE TROPICS
Kayaking trips in the tropics differ from northern climates in that
much of our exploration is under the water amongst the coral reefs. Our
main concerns while on the water are protection from sun (both above
and reflected off the water), dehydration, and the effects of salt.
Protection from the sun and dehydration are easily managed by wearing a
wide brimmed hat, using a good, waterproof sunscreen (SPF 15-35),
wearing light colored clothing and, of course, drinking plenty of
fluids. As for salt, the high salinity of the Caribbean Sea can dry
your skin and cause blisters on hands (paddling) and feet
(snorkeling). Skin lotion or moisturizer for your skin, gloves to
protect your hands (cotton garden gloves or cycle gloves work very
well) and socks for your feet while snorkeling are recommended. On
longer traveling days, we take an extended lunch and snorkeling breaks.

SNORKELING IN THE TROPICS
For many, the highlight of their trip is the time spent exploring the
wonders of the underwater world. This does not require great levels of
skill or expensive equipment to accomplish. IEC guides enjoy teaching
others the simple skills necessary to enjoy snorkeling. Amongst many of
the areas we explore, the water is shallow enough to stand. Initially,
we enter the water from a beach but as our skill level increases we
will learn to enter and exit from our kayaks. This will enable us to
experience longer and deeper dives as well as drift dives, floating
along a patch of coral with our boats drifting behind us. To ensure
that the reefs are protected for future generations, we avoid damaging
the coral by not touching, standing on or dropping anchor on coral. As
a living organism, many corals rely on nematocysts to sting their prey.
These same nematocysts can sting humans ranging from mild to strong in
intensity. Care is taken to show all participants the coral species
which should be avoided. If you get cold easily, a lightweight wetsuit
or a spandex / lycra dive suit to keep from getting cold when spending
extended time in the water, is recommended. Polypropylene, capilene or
silk long underwear work as well. In addition, this method also
protects against sunburn.

Passport and Visa Requirements:
PassportsPassport valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay required by all nationals referred to in chart.Passport NoteAll travellers are required to show evidence of sufficient funds (. more

Climate for
Glovers Reef & River of Caves

Subtropical,
with prevailing north-easterly Trade winds from the sea. Temperatures
range from 60 degrees Farenheit (16 Celsius) to 95 degrees Farenheit
(32 celsius). Belize is marked by a wet season from June to November
and a dry season from December to May. Although the best time of year
to travel to belize is definitely through the "dry season", mother
nature does still give us some rain during this timeframe. Northern
Belize which may receive as little as 50 inches of rainfall is
considerably drier than the far south, which can receive upwards of 180
inches of rainfall annually, which help feed the lush jungles and
year-round grow season. Similar to other regions in the Caribbean
basin, Belize also has a distinct hurricane season that generally
starts in late June and continues into early November.

Notes About the Ecology...

Flora...
Belize's Barrier Reef is the largest reef in the northern hemisphere,
second largest in the world, extending 185 miles (300 km) along the
coastline. Approximately 35 miles seaward from the eastern border of
the Barrier Reef, lies one of Belize's most spectacular atolls –
Lighthouse Reef. These circular shaped reef systems climb from the
ocean floor and surround a central lagoon. The surrounding reef is
primarily made up of two kinds of coral, the hard hydro-coral
(reef-forming coral), such as brain coral or elkhorn coral, and the
soft corals, such as sea fans and feather plumes. The sheltered lagoon
harbors one of the world's most diverse sea environments; an extensive
community of fish, shellfish, and patch reefs. One mile off the eastern
shore of the atoll, the reef wall quickly drops 2600 feet to the ocean
floor below. The interaction between the deeper, open waters of the
Caribbean Sea and the sheltered lagoons of the atoll, results in a
diversity and abundance of marine life, which is unsurpassed for sea
kayaking, snorkeling and diving.
booby bird halfmoon caye belize

Fauna...
While on Half-Moon Caye, we will have the opportunity to view a diverse
range of sea life and tropical birds. While exploring and snorkeling
the atoll and the surrounding patch reefs, there are opportunities to
see grouper, bonefish, angel and parrot fish, stingrays, eagle rays,
conger, moray eels, and goatfish; just to name a few. Some of the
bird-life includes osprey (the billyhawk), royal terns, brown-footed,
red-footed and white-footed boobies, frigate birds, hawks, mangrove
warblers, and white-crowned pigeons. Around the atoll there are nesting
sites for loggerhead, green and hawksbill turtles. If we're lucky, we
may see them while out snorkeling or kayaking. We will definitely have
a chance to see and sample the main staple for Belizean fishermen, the
spiny lobster (when in season) and the queen conch.

What to Bring for
Glovers Reef & River of Caves

ISLAND EXPEDITIONSoffer the following online link to their Essential Information Package for their clients, we highly recommend you read it thoroughly. Some information may be repetitive from the Hidden Trails material, but some will be new and important to your preparations and expectations of Belize and this tour!

When
traveling to Belize it is best to travel with one large check-in bag
and one carry-on bag. We recommend a medium duffel bag and a small day
pack. These bags are easy to move around, can be toted easily on boats,
small planes and van/bus roof racks. Suitcases or Backpacks can work
too; however suitcases get damaged in transit more often and backpack
straps get caught on Airport conveyers.

With heightened
security and busy airports it pays to pack wisely to make your airport
visits run smoothly. For a complete list of important packing tips
please visit www.tsatraveltips.us. Also, make sure everything you have
is labeled, don’t put any metal objects in your carry-on baggage or
wear metal jewelry, clothing etc. and have all your luggage unlocked
for inspection. If you have any special dietary needs contact your
airline 24 hours prior to departure and you should arrive 2 hours in
advance for your international flight to Belize.
PERSONAL EQUIPMENT LISTPassportPhotocopy of passportAir ticketsFavorite snacks for between mealsPersonal spending and emergency funds1 extra set of clothes for flight home including shoes1 pair hiking shoes ( good tread recommended—will get wet and muddyin the cave)2nd pair of shoes to wear in the evening around camp1 pair water-sports sandals, Teva is a good brand.1 or 2 pair lightweight, fast drying long pantsUnderwear3 - 4 pairs of socks2 pair nylon shorts and/or loose skirt or sarong1 bathing suits2-3 T-shirts1 long sleeved shirts preferably with a collar (for protection from the sun& bugs) Silk shirts work well and dry quickly.

Generally in the field you
should have at least two sets of clothing: one wet for sea
and one dry for the evening. Also, a sturdy pair of sport sandals or
water shoes is very important.1 fleece jacket (this will keep you warm even when wet)1 good quality rain jacket1 wide brimmed sunhat (to keep the sun off your face and neck)Sunglasses with band (Chums, Croakies, etc.)1-3 bandanas (handy for sun protection)Spare set of eyeglasses (even if you wear contact lenses) and contact lens solutionHeadlamp and spare batteriesMask, fins, snorkel *IMPORTANT*10 lt dry bag to waterproof personal documents, camera etc.Wet suit – (not essential but water temperatures in Dec. and Jan. can be cooler) and / orCapilene, polypropylene or silk long underwear (great for snorkeling)1 liter water bottle1 small towel—(either a small camp towel or thin beach towel)1 washcloth— choose a thin small cloth

PURCHASING SNORKEL EQUIPMENT
Knowing how to snorkel and what to watch for are all well and good, but
inadequate equipment can spoil the best of conditions. Therefore, it is
highly recommended that you purchase equipment that fits comfortably.
Borrowing a friend’s gear is okay for fins and snorkel but a mask must
conform to the individuals face to ensure a watertight seal. Nothing is
more frustrating for snorkelers than water leaking into your mask. When
shopping for a mask check for the following:

- A smooth seal around the mask. Both rubber and silicone work well.
Check that the material is not cracked, brittle or stiff , all signs of
an old mask.
- Press mask to face and inhale through your nose.

DO NOT PUT THE STRAP AROUND YOUR HEAD but leave it off in front of the
mask. If the mask seals, it will stay on your face even if you tilt
your head down. Check that no hair gets between the mask and your face
to break the seal.

- Make sure the front of the mask does not press against the bridge of
your nose. This will get worse the deeper you dive. Vaseline around the
edge of the mask helps for a better seal for men with beards or
moustaches.
- Make sure snorkels fit comfortably in your mouth. With fins, a snug
fit is best. Complete foot fins rather than those with a strap around
the heel are preferred. Leave enough room for socks if you wish.
- Above all else, try the mask in water (pool, bathtub, etc.) before
you arrive in Belize. A dive shop will gladly exchange an ill-fitting
mask for one with a better fit.

BUGS

Yes, they do exist! Weather, wind conditions and proximity to the
previous rainy season affect the concentrations of biting insects found
on both the cays and the mainland. While camping on the cays, you may
need to take precautions against the sand fly, also known as
“no-see-ums”. These flies are jumpers and are found in the sand, being
most persistent in the early morning and evening, especially when the
wind is calm. They leave small, red, itchy bites. The itching can be
effectively alleviated with Calamine Lotion or an After-bite stick. The
most common areas affected are your feet and ankles. The most effective
form of precautions are clothing to cover up, and a good deet-based
repellent. Lightweight long pants and socks and a light long sleeve
shirt will help in times of no wind. Quick-dry fabrics work very well
in these instances. Typically, you should look for something with 20%+
deet content for optimal protection. Deep woods or Ben’s Insect
Repellant are both good options. The more natural citronella repellents
are not as effective.
If you are extremely susceptible to bugs, you should consider a
bug-shirt and/or pants (we have jackets available in Belize; please
contact our office ahead of your departure to arrange one for your
trip) which are available at outdoor stores, this clothing is designed
to allow maximum ventilation while protecting against bugs. For inland
trips, mosquitoes can be a nuisance. The same precautions, as mentioned
above, hold true. If you find that you are extremely susceptible to
bugs you might want to consider a bug-shirt and pants. The tent
accommodations are fitted with “no-see-um netting” and should be left
closed to ensure a bug-free sleep.

PHOTOGRAPHY
There are no limits to the types of cameras you can bring along:
FOR THE SERIOUS: 35 mm cameras with a wide angle (24 mm, 28 mm) and
zoom (28-70 mm) or telephoto lenses (35-80 mm, 70-210 mm) are good
combinations. A "universal lens" 28-150 mm zoom with macro is very
useful. A 'high power' wide-angle coverage flash is very useful for
filling in shadows and reducing high light contrast. An additional fast
wide-angle lens (18-21 mm) will also be useful, especially on the
river. For wildlife photographers, a 300 mm or longer lens is needed.
Because of the nature of our travel, a waterproof system such as the “
Pelican” case to keep your camera dry is highly recommended. For kayak
and river trips, this plastic hard-shell box can be mounted on the deck
of your sea kayak and will give the best protection from the elements,
as well as allow you quick access to your camera. Make sure you bring
along a supply of silica gel packs to absorb moisture within your
camera box or bag. Waterproof cameras are especially suitable for reef
and river trips. You may want to consider a tripod or monopod to steady
those macro or low-light shots. It is advisable to have your camera
equipment insured.
FILM: We recommend that you purchase all the film that you need before
leaving home, as reliable sources of film are hard to come by in
Belize. For slide film, we recommend Fuji Velvia 50 ASA for the water,
Astia 100 or 1000, Fuji Provia & Sensia 100 & 200 ASA for
general photography and overcast days and Fujichrome 400 + or Kodak 200
for inland shots. For print film, we recommend Fujicolor and Kodak Gold
100 & 200 for most days and Kodak and Fuji NPH 400 for overcast
days and inland shots. An electronic flash will help to fill in shadows
on bright days and bring out the highlights under the canopy of the
rainforest. Do not forget extra batteries for both your camera and
flash!
FOR THE NOT-SO-SERIOUS: Any of the point-and-shoot cameras will work
well with the film recommended above. An automatic point-and-shoot that
has a zoom lens and integrated flash is ideal. In addition, the new
rugged weatherproof cameras work well especially the underwater and
panoramic types. Again, these should be purchased before arrival in
Belize.
VIDEO: Remember to bring enough film for the length of your stay. In
addition, you may wish to bring 1 or 2 more battery packs than usual.
It will be very difficult to charge batteries out on the cays. For
kayak trips, a separate waterproof box or bag is highly recommended.
DIGITAL CAMERAS: Remember to bring enough storage and extra batteries.
It is important to keep these cameras in an air and water tight storage
container. The salt air and sea water will easily penetrate the housing
and affect its performance.
NOTE: Send in your prize photos. Slide or print shots that get chosen
for the cover can earn you a free Island Expeditions Co. trip!

FISHING
Opportunities for fishing on the sea are exceptional. Barracuda,
grouper, jacks, snapper, mackerel and tarpon are some of the more
prized fish we catch with spin-casting gear or simple bait-trolling
rigs. Fly-fishing for bonefish (catch and release only, please!) is
unmatched for light tackle challenge and excitement. If you are
planning on fly-fishing for bonefish, tarpon, permit, snook etc. you
should talk to your local fly-fishing shop to find out the specific
tackle needed and where you can get it in your area. On the trip, there
are usually a few extra "tow lines" (100 yds of 30 to 50 lb test on a
stick with wire leader) available for trolling from your kayak. There
are also fishing opportunities on our river trips. We recommend a
lightweight collapsible spin casting rig. A variety of light tackle in
different colors, weights and with floating or sinking action is best.
Machaca, tuba and snook are in most rivers and can provide exceptional
angling. Very little is known about the best ways to catch these fish
in the rivers, so count on experimenting with different gear and
techniques.
It is crucial that you have light-weight and fast-drying clothes to
protect you from the sun. Much of the time while fishing (particularly
when fly-fishing), you will be wading or walking the reef flats, and
the sun, the heat and glare can be intense. A comfortable sunhat, good
sunglasses (Polarized lenses work best for being able to see through
the reflection off the water) are necessary. A pair of light, cotton,
fingerless gloves work well to protect the back of your hands from the
sun and allow minimal interfere with your working the reel. For
footwear; rubber sport sandals, an old pair of canvas runners or
neoprene reef walkers are perfect.

TACKLE
The type of tackle that you bring with you will depend on what type of
fish you want to catch and how serious you are about fishing. They say
in Belize that you don't go “ fishing”, you go "catching". Popular
wisdom is that: if you put your line into Belizean waters you will
catch something! With many hundreds of miles of unspoiled fishing
grounds, Belize is a superb sport-fishing destination. In Belize,
bonefish, tarpon, barracuda, jacks and king mackerel are plentiful.
Permit are also a prime catch but can be very difficult to find.

FLYFISHING
Although our kayak adventures are not designed as exclusive
sport-fishing trips, we are traveling through some of the richest
bonefish and tarpon waters in the western hemisphere. Often the best
fishing is done right from where we are camping, particularly if there
are accessible sand flats, mangroves or abrupt drop-offs. When paddling
or sailing your kayak you can troll a weight forward or sinking line.
This is a good way to catch barracuda, grouper or snapper. You never
know - you may even hook into a tarpon!
For bonefish you want to have a 7, 8 or 9 weight rod, nine foot or
slightly longer depending on the size of the fish and the flies you are
using. A 5 or 6 weight stream fishing rod will do for smaller bonefish
and can be great fun but you will wish you had heavier gear if you hook
into a 3 or 4 pound fish. Effective bonefish flies are Crazy Charlies
#4, #6, #8 in gold, tan & pink. Horror's # 4, 6, 8 in orange, and
Snapping Shrimp # 4, 6 in tan. A heavier tippet of 10-12 lb will hold
up well in the shallow coral & rubble strewn waters. The heavier
rod weights will work for jacks, and barracuda as well. If you plan to
fish for tarpon we suggest 10, 11 or 12 weight rods. Apart from
matching the right reel to the type of fish you are going after, the
most important thing is a reel that can handle the harsh saltwater
conditions. You need to be religious about washing your reel in
freshwater each day, particularly if you are using the reel you bought
for trout fishing at home. Many of the fish you will hook are fast and
unbelievably strong, therefore, your reel should hold a minimum of 150
yards of backing, and 20 to 30 pounds test or more for tarpon. A
weight-forward, tapered floating line is good for bonefish, you will
want a sinking line as well for tarpon. If you are serious about your
fly-fishing you should bring an extra line with you.
Nine to twelve foot leaders are fine, heavier and shorter leaders are
easier to fish within the difficult, windy conditions that are often
encountered on the Belize reef. 2X & 4X for calm conditions in
shallow waters and 1X, 0X, or 02X are also okay.
*IMPORTANT NOTE:
Fishing Licenses will be required for fly-fishing in the Glovers Reef
reserve. Cost is $25bz ($12.50 USD) per person per week. Barbless hooks
only.

Video for
Glovers Reef & River of Caves

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Google Map for
Glovers Reef & River of Caves

Average Tour Ratings for
Glovers Reef & River of Caves

*Important Notice: The following ratings have been submitted by guests and do not necessarily represent the views of Hidden Trails, its partners or employees.

Every care is taken to ensure accuracy but Hidden Trails is not liable for any errors or omissions.

Accomodations for
Glovers Reef & River of Caves

On Day 1 and 2 we spend the night at the Tropical Education Center. The Education Center has comfortable, rustic accommodations in a beautiful pine savannah setting. The Center has a fantastic interpretative center and harbors Belize's largest collection of tropical animals, with a great network of trails and wildlife viewing platforms, perfect for exploring this rare forest environment.

On Day 3 to 7 at Southwest Caye, we are "base camping", sleeping in tent-walled cabanas. These spacious safari-style tents are have ample headroom to walk around and are on raised wooden floors with double or single beds. On the island, we have a fully equipped kitchen, fresh-water collection system for drinking water, access to fresh-water showers and modern composting toilets, We also have a large dining area, resource library lounge.

Meal
preparation is one of our specialties. You can expect a delicious
assortment of seafood, fresh vegetables, tropical fruits and fresh
baked breads. Both Belizean and international cuisine is prepared by
your guides. Many of our main courses are gathered fresh from the sea
each day. If you have any special dietary requirements please tell us
in advance so that we can do our best to accommodate your needs.

We use
freshwater from a well on the island for all our washing and provide
freshwater for showers to wash off the salt. Wash basins with fresh
water are located near the toilet and shower. A small mirror is helpful
for contact lenses, shaving, etc. Our toilet is a modern composting
system. These areas are washed and cleaned daily by your guides. This
method is approved by the Coastal Zone Management Unit of Belize and is
in keeping with the tenets of minimal impact camping. The freshwater
showers are located in the center of camp and are fed with rainwater
and spring-fed water. For those that choose to bathe in the ocean,
using salt-water soap, this is also a very effective way to clean and
there is no waiting for the shower.

The final night is optional and at extra cost. We will be staying in Belize City and our accommodations are at the Belize Biltmore Plaza, a comfortable, modern hotel with a inviting pool-side courtyard and bar. The Belize International Airport is a short cab ride from the hotel, which can be arranged through the front desk. The hotel also has a tour desk that can help you arrange activities if you are planning on staying longer. in the Belize City area.

Glovers Reef & River of Caves

Quality leadership is an integral part of any great trip and is what helps to distinguish Hidden Trails' partner, Island Expeditions, trips from the rest. Our leaders, far and away the most experienced in Belize, are consummate professionals taking great pride and personal pleasure in sharing and creating memorable travel experiences for you. With backgrounds as biologists and teachers, photographers, fishermen and explorers, they provide invaluable insights into the areas and cultures we travel. All wilderness trips are led by the most experience leaders in the business. This ensures that you are venturing into the wilds of Belize with Belizean guides, who have a wealth of experience and skills relating to the environments, languages and customs of their native land, along with North American leaders who accompany the group, and are trained to North American standards in Wilderness First Aid, Swiftwater Rescue and Kayaking Instruction. Perhaps most important, IEC guides' consideration for your safety, and their enthusiasm, good nature and dedication help to set the tone for each trip... where learning and exceptional adventures go hand in hand.

SEA KAYAKING IN THE TROPICS
Kayaking trips in the tropics differ from northern climates in that
much of our exploration is under the water amongst the coral reefs. Our
main concerns while on the water are protection from sun (both above
and reflected off the water), dehydration, and the effects of salt.
Protection from the sun and dehydration are easily managed by wearing a
wide brimmed hat, using a good, waterproof sunscreen (SPF 15-35),
wearing light colored clothing and, of course, drinking plenty of
fluids. As for salt, the high salinity of the Caribbean Sea can dry
your skin and cause blisters on hands (paddling) and feet
(snorkeling). Skin lotion or moisturizer for your skin, gloves to
protect your hands (cotton garden gloves or cycle gloves work very
well) and socks for your feet while snorkeling are recommended. On
longer traveling days, we take an extended lunch and snorkeling breaks.

SNORKELING IN THE TROPICS
For many, the highlight of their trip is the time spent exploring the
wonders of the underwater world. This does not require great levels of
skill or expensive equipment to accomplish. IEC guides enjoy teaching
others the simple skills necessary to enjoy snorkeling. Amongst many of
the areas we explore, the water is shallow enough to stand. Initially,
we enter the water from a beach but as our skill level increases we
will learn to enter and exit from our kayaks. This will enable us to
experience longer and deeper dives as well as drift dives, floating
along a patch of coral with our boats drifting behind us. To ensure
that the reefs are protected for future generations, we avoid damaging
the coral by not touching, standing on or dropping anchor on coral. As
a living organism, many corals rely on nematocysts to sting their prey.
These same nematocysts can sting humans ranging from mild to strong in
intensity. Care is taken to show all participants the coral species
which should be avoided. If you get cold easily, a lightweight wetsuit
or a spandex / lycra dive suit to keep from getting cold when spending
extended time in the water, is recommended. Polypropylene, capilene or
silk long underwear work as well. In addition, this method also
protects against sunburn.

Visa Requirement For
Glovers Reef & River of Caves

PassportsPassport valid for six months beyond the intended length of stay required by all nationals referred to in chart.

Passport Note
All travellers are required to show evidence of sufficient funds (minimum £50 per day) and proof of return or onward ticket at the point of entry.

Visas
Not required by all nationals referred to in the chart above and nationals of their overseas territories for stays of up to 30 days except:
1. nationals of Bulgaria and Romania.Note: Nationals not referred to in the chart above are advised to contact the embassy/high commission to check visa requirements (see Contact Addresses).

Types of Visa and Cost
Single-entry: £60; Multiple-entry: £110. Handling fee of £5 for all applications.

Working Days Required
Most visas are issued the next working day. Some applications may require authorisation from the Director of Immigration and the Nationality Service in Belize; this will take up to four weeks.

Easy pace and an average-to-sedentary level of fitness. You should be in good health and fit enough for full day of normal sightseeing and walking.

2.

Easy to Moderate

An average level of fitness or some experience with the featured
activity is recommended.

3.

Moderate

Requires you to have performed the featured activity regularly, with
some periods on challenging terrain. Activities are mandatory and
you may be traveling at high elevations. You need to be in good health and physical condition to enjoy these trips, with adequate muscular strength and cardiovascular endurance.

4.

Demanding

You must be extremely physically fit and are expected to hike or
ride four to six hours over steep or more rugged terrain.

5.

Strenuous

Prolonged hiking/biking on moderate to difficult terrain (five to nine hours a day).
May include high altitude, rugged terrain etc..